XL: Hidden Cells in a Worksheet May Become Unhidden

The information in this article applies to:

• Microsoft Excel for Windows, versions 5.0, 5.0c
• Microsoft Excel for Windows NT, version 5.0
• Microsoft Excel for Windows 95, version 7.0

SYMPTOMS

In Microsoft Excel, hidden cells in a worksheet may become unhidden if all of the following conditions are true:

• There is at least one hidden row or column in the worksheet.

  -and-

• The Transition Navigation Keys option is enabled.

  -and-

• You are creating a formula on another worksheet or workbook using Point mode, and you select a cell on the worksheet.

WORKAROUND

To keep cells from becoming unhidden, do the following to turn the Transition Navigation Keys option off:

1. From the Tools menu, choose Options, and then select the Transition tab.

2. Under Settings, clear the Transition Navigation Keys check box.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Microsoft Excel version 5.0 for Windows. We are researching this problem and will post new information here in the Microsoft Knowledge Base as it becomes available.

This problem does not occur in Microsoft Excel for the Macintosh version 5.0.

MORE INFORMATION

Point mode is a data entry mode that lets you create a formula by selecting cells with the mouse or keyboard. The status bar will display the word "Point" in the lower-left corner when you are in this mode. For example, in point mode, if you activate a cell and press = (the equal sign), you can select another cell by pressing the arrow keys on the keyboard or selecting a cell with your mouse.